The NO BAC technology, based on silver, is permanently integrated on the surface of the laminate, right from the production phase, and is evenly distributed across the entire surface, actively protecting the product throughout its life cycle.

This innovative product has numerous fields of application: food storage, cleanrooms, laboratories, refrigerated containers for transportation and, in general, all environments with high hygiene requirements: schools, kindergartens, health facilities, kitchens, bathrooms, spas, gyms and shopping centres.

来自意大利欧洲最大的玻璃纤维制造商BRIANZA PLASTICA公司将持续采用其连续热层压技术和不连续冷层压技术为各大领域生产各种不同质量的层压板。当中，这包括从建筑业和农业专用的标准层压板以至休旅车、冷藏车和公共运输车辆专用的高品质层压板。

 Brianza Plastica于1962年创立，主要经营玻璃纤维层压材料的生产业务。自创立以来，该品牌通过其所提供全面性的层压产品系列，使得其公司在业务拓展上取得了重大的成就。该公司生产建筑业专用层压板，并从2006年起在生产运输业专用层压产品上持续取得卓越成绩。在运输业方面，其品跑也为休闲车(露营车和旅行拖车)以及运货汽车和冷藏拖车生产商提供片状玻璃纤维。

BRIANZA PLASTICA公司总部设于意大利卡拉泰布里安扎，两间生产厂房分别设于意大利费兰迪纳和奥斯泰拉托。同时，该公司在意大利罗维戈市圣马蒂诺-迪韦内泽镇也设有两间生产厂房。

另一方面面，至于销售和经销中心则分别设于意大利诺拉 、法国里昂以及美国埃尔克哈。随着休旅车和冷藏货车的市场需求增长，Brianza  Plastica也鉴于此 在2014年于美国埃尔克哈特设立了经销中心，并在2016年于意大利罗维戈市设立了两间新厂房，专门生产Elycold系列不连续式平面层压板。

此外，公司也在意大利卡拉泰布里安扎厂房增加了新的生产线，专门生产Elyplan系列层压板。

这些投资项目让Brianza Plastica得以提升它的生产力超过40%，有助公司为应付未来的市场需要作出准备。随著拓展其生产力，Brianza Plastica得以达致最大的生产灵活性，并能更有效地满足所有的市场需求。

Spare parts are crucial for keeping truck fleets moving. Diesel Technic is a major player in the aftermarket scene and enjoys a good reputation for excellent service and one of the widest ranges of parts for major brands. In Thailand, as anywhere else in the world, DT Spare Parts are being sold via distributors. Asian Trucker met with the founder of Nam Bamrung Auto Parts Ltd., Part. In order to find out more about the ins and outs of spare parts distribution.

Taking a no-nonsense approach, the Bangkok based business has built a solid reputation that transcends the borders of Thailand.

Located in the heart of Bangkok is the headquarters of Nak Bamrung. It has been in the same spot since the founder, Mr Kimchuan, Techatanakitlert, has set it up in 1980. Meanwhile he has another outlet and his son, Chankit Techatanakitlert, is also taking a keen interest in the business. Nak Bamrung has been a Diesel Technic distributor since 2007; as we conduct our interview the latest certificate authenticating the business as a legitimate distributor was handed over by Paul Chan, Sales Manager of Diesel Technic Asia Pacific Pte Ltd.

Humble Beginnings
Techatanakitlert Sr started out working for another distributor for six years, mainly handling Japanese trucks. Following that, he got his hands on some European brand trucks and learned his way around that. Seeing an opportunity, he left his employment after being unhappy with the direction his bosses were taking. One of the problems he had was that he was lacking capital. He took out loans for what he needed and promised to repay through hard work. Taking a no-nonsense approach and the idea that one has to keep any promise made, the business began to flourish. One of the contributing factors to his success was the trust given by distributors in Singapore, where he also built a solid reputation.
Diesel Technic has been supplying parts since 2007 to Nak Bamrung, starting with simple parts, such as nozzles. From there the portfolio has been expanded continuously.

Boost from Singapore
A huge boost of confidence came from the market when Diesel Technic opened up the regional headquarters in Singapore. “Since then, the business with Diesel Technic has taken off. The sales volume has quadrupled and the support we are receiving has had a positive impact on our business,” he said. The proximity to the warehouse now allows for fast deliveries. Within three days, Nak Bamrung will receive parts they order from Singapore. This has also led to an influx of new customers, of which they count 20 until now.

Advantage Diesel Technic
When asked why he chose Diesel Technic, Techatanakitlert explains “Diesel Technic is able to provide a wide range of products. Thanks to the support we get, we have been able to secure more customers. Good service for us is defined as fast delivery, better price support when we need to react to the market forces and lastly, the perception of European brands here is very good.” In working with the German company, Nak Bamrung is also happy to note that the distribution channels do not change randomly and are based on mutual trust and confidence. In his opinion, in business, one cannot just reap the rewards of the work, one sometimes also needs to take responsibility. And this is where Nak Bamrung stands with their name for quality products and services. One thing that he highlights is that there has been a paradigm shift. Some 30 years ago, there was only “Win”, meaning that a distributor would never have to make any concessions. However, things have changed and today, a distributor has to take on responsibility and work with the principal to address issues, rather than just skirting around them. It is a circle. Good products are supporting the distributors and happy customers return to the distributor for quality products. Nowadays, constant feedback to the principal, here Diesel Technic is part of the partnership that helps to improve the business.

Modern Needs
Back in the days, it was good enough to just have DT Spare Parts nozzles in the portfolio. Over the years, the demands towards Nak Bamrung have changed and today, customers require a full range of spare parts. However, in the case of Nak Bamrung, the hot items are mainly undercarriage parts. That said, Nak Bamrung has, of course, access to the entire range of products from Diesel Technic, as and when needed by clients. Having grown substantially, today the company employs some 14 staff, while four family members are involved in the enterprise.
Focusing on the top line performance, rather than the bottom line performance, the strategy is to service clients that would come to Nak Bamrung, rather than chasing them. Clients from the provinces typically visit the outlets to collect their parts. This way, the company is also kept lean with less staff than one may expect. “This is a volume game!”, is the summary.

Next Generation
Following in the footsteps of the founder is his son, Chankit Techatanakitlert. Having studied in Australia, he returned to Bangkok to help in the business. Coincidentally, Techatanakitlert Jr has been with the company for 10 years by now. “What I enjoy is to address the question of what our customers need. Solving problems may sound like a challenge. But it is really a rewarding task as one is building relationships with the clients.”

Looking ahead, Nak Bamrung is planning to open another warehouse to further enhance the support of clients. Supporting this ambition is Chan. “Our goal is to make the Diesel Technic brand more known, to increase brand awareness. Although very ambitious, we want to see our blue and white boxes everywhere,” he says with a smile. Having a positive meaning to Chinese, the name Nak Bamrung beacons good fortune. “The timing must be right. So has to be the place and the people involved.”

Techatanakitlert Sr finishes by saying that “When you start a business, it helps to have a name that is easy to remember. Please remember Nak Bamrung the next time you need a spare part for your truck.”

The Diesel Technic Group is one of the largest suppliers of commercial vehicle spare parts in the Independent Aftermarket (IAM). The global network of subsidiaries and authorized distribution partners ensures the local supply of spare parts and individual support of customers in over 150 countries. Distribution partners and their customers value Diesel Technic as a reliable Full-Service-Partner.

The Diesel Technic Group includes, in addition to the headquarters in Germany, subsidiaries in France, the Netherlands, Spain, United Kingdom, Italia, Dubai and Singapore. Worldwide, the Diesel Technic Group employs more than 650 people from 30 countries.

Diesel Technic Italia S.r.l. is our new subsidiary in Italy (located in Verona) and it started its operative business on 2nd Nov 2016

Located in the heart of Bangkok is the headquarters of Nak Bamrung. It has been in the same spot since the founder, Mr Kimchuan, Techatanakitlert, has set it up in 1980. Meanwhile he has another outlet and his son, Chankit Techatanakitlert, is also taking a keen interest in the business. Nak Bamrung has been a Diesel Technic distributor since 2007; as we conduct our interview the latest certificate authenticating the business as a legitimate distributor was handed over by Paul Chan, Sales Manager of Diesel Technic Asia Pacific Pte Ltd.

Humble Beginnings
Techatanakitlert Sr started out working for another distributor for six years, mainly handling Japanese trucks. Following that, he got his hands on some European brand trucks and learned his way around that. Seeing an opportunity, he left his employment after being unhappy with the direction his bosses were taking. One of the problems he had was that he was lacking capital. He took out loans for what he needed and promised to repay through hard work. Taking a no-nonsense approach and the idea that one has to keep any promise made, the business began to flourish. One of the contributing factors to his success was the trust given by distributors in Singapore, where he also built a solid reputation.
Diesel Technic has been supplying parts since 2007 to Nak Bamrung, starting with simple parts, such as nozzles. From there the portfolio has been expanded continuously.

Boost from Singapore
A huge boost of confidence came from the market when Diesel Technic opened up the regional headquarters in Singapore. “Since then, the business with Diesel Technic has taken off. The sales volume has quadrupled and the support we are receiving has had a positive impact on our business,” he said. The proximity to the warehouse now allows for fast deliveries. Within three days, Nak Bamrung will receive parts they order from Singapore. This has also led to an influx of new customers, of which they count 20 until now.

Advantage Diesel Technic
When asked why he chose Diesel Technic, Techatanakitlert explains “Diesel Technic is able to provide a wide range of products. Thanks to the support we get, we have been able to secure more customers. Good service for us is defined as fast delivery, better price support when we need to react to the market forces and lastly, the perception of European brands here is very good.” In working with the German company, Nak Bamrung is also happy to note that the distribution channels do not change randomly and are based on mutual trust and confidence. In his opinion, in business, one cannot just reap the rewards of the work, one sometimes also needs to take responsibility. And this is where Nak Bamrung stands with their name for quality products and services. One thing that he highlights is that there has been a paradigm shift. Some 30 years ago, there was only “Win”, meaning that a distributor would never have to make any concessions. However, things have changed and today, a distributor has to take on responsibility and work with the principal to address issues, rather than just skirting around them. It is a circle. Good products are supporting the distributors and happy customers return to the distributor for quality products. Nowadays, constant feedback to the principal, here Diesel Technic is part of the partnership that helps to improve the business.

Modern Needs
Back in the days, it was good enough to just have DT Spare Parts nozzles in the portfolio. Over the years, the demands towards Nak Bamrung have changed and today, customers require a full range of spare parts. However, in the case of Nak Bamrung, the hot items are mainly undercarriage parts. That said, Nak Bamrung has, of course, access to the entire range of products from Diesel Technic, as and when needed by clients. Having grown substantially, today the company employs some 14 staff, while four family members are involved in the enterprise.
Focusing on the top line performance, rather than the bottom line performance, the strategy is to service clients that would come to Nak Bamrung, rather than chasing them. Clients from the provinces typically visit the outlets to collect their parts. This way, the company is also kept lean with less staff than one may expect. “This is a volume game!”, is the summary.

Next Generation
Following in the footsteps of the founder is his son, Chankit Techatanakitlert. Having studied in Australia, he returned to Bangkok to help in the business. Coincidentally, Techatanakitlert Jr has been with the company for 10 years by now. “What I enjoy is to address the question of what our customers need. Solving problems may sound like a challenge. But it is really a rewarding task as one is building relationships with the clients.”

Looking ahead, Nak Bamrung is planning to open another warehouse to further enhance the support of clients. Supporting this ambition is Chan. “Our goal is to make the Diesel Technic brand more known, to increase brand awareness. Although very ambitious, we want to see our blue and white boxes everywhere,” he says with a smile. Having a positive meaning to Chinese, the name Nak Bamrung beacons good fortune. “The timing must be right. So has to be the place and the people involved.”

Techatanakitlert Sr finishes by saying that “When you start a business, it helps to have a name that is easy to remember. Please remember Nak Bamrung the next time you need a spare part for your truck.”

The Diesel Technic Group is one of the largest suppliers of commercial vehicle spare parts in the Independent Aftermarket (IAM). The global network of subsidiaries and authorized distribution partners ensures the local supply of spare parts and individual support of customers in over 150 countries. Distribution partners and their customers value Diesel Technic as a reliable Full-Service-Partner.

The Diesel Technic Group includes, in addition to the headquarters in Germany, subsidiaries in France, the Netherlands, Spain, United Kingdom, Italia, Dubai and Singapore. Worldwide, the Diesel Technic Group employs more than 650 people from 30 countries.

Diesel Technic Italia S.r.l. is our new subsidiary in Italy (located in Verona) and it started its operative business on 2nd Nov 2016

“The Conti Hybrid HD3 features excellence in higher mileage, fuel efficiency and retreadability suited for the everyday drives on regional routes and roads alike. Fleet owners look for means of minimizing costs in their business and we provide this by reducing fuel consumption and providing longer service life. As with other Generation 3 tyres, Continental backs up our products with the unique C3 warranty span,” said Mr. Cameron Wilson, Managing Director of Continental Tyre Malaysia.
 
Additional key features also include low tire weight and high ride comfort. A tire suited for containers, general cargo and tankers. Additionally, the Generation 3 line range for Steer, Drive and Trailer tyres is complete and readily available in the Malaysian market. This superior range in truck tyres was designed and tested on Asian roads, making it tough and durable enough to handle the demands of both regional transport and motorway use. The Hybrid tyre line is perfectly tailored for retreadability with ContiLifeCyle. 

DCVT, which is an integral part of Daimler Asia and its regional Southeast Asia network, has full access to all of Daimler’s vast services. At the same time DCVT’s ever developing Thai operations are setting deep roots, with local content, local assembly, local warehousing and local dedicated training for its nationwide dealer network staff.

Fuso, the Daimler commercial vehicle brand in Thailand, will include not only truck sales, but also Fuso Leasing, offering finance and leasing services with local market flexibility; Fuso Protection, providing insurance geared to this sector; and Fuso Oil. The Fuso brands and services, set up specifically for the Thai market, will bring a level of customer dedication previously unseen in Thailand.

Mr Ricanek, as the newly appointed and first CEO of DCVT, comes to the position with over 15 years’ experience with Daimler in Asia and Europe, including 10 years in commercial vehicles.

“Fuso, with many years here, has developed a real understanding of the Thai market. As the company expands our dealer network ever further nationwide, offering our customers total all round solutions, addressing each of their needs whether it be leasing support, insurance or maintenance at every one of our dealerships. Our vehicles are available to be ordered now and our dealers are ready,” said Mr Ricanek said

“We want Fuso customers to truly know our brand, our products, and to have the confidence that they will be well looked after with excellent aftersales service. Moving forward we will continually demonstrate our total and long-term commitment to Thailand, and to all those who purchase Fuso trucks,” he added.

Southeast Asia remains one of the world’s fastest growing commercial vehicle markets. DCVT is looking to capitalise on this significant demand and further build its leadership position with the full support of Daimler and Daimler Trucks. Fuso in Thailand is now able to incorporate all services, knowledge and pioneering technologies into a one stop service for the Thai market with the establishment of DCVT. In addition, with the establishment of Fuso Leasing to support Fuso customers, there will be greater purchase flexibility and an enhanced customer experience. Mercedes-Benz Leasing (Thailand) Managing Director, Mr Supavut Jiramanusnakom, will oversee Fuso Leasing which is the financial service provider for the Daimler Group’s products in Thailand.

Daimler Commercial Vehicle (Thailand) Ltd. (DCVT), a part of Daimler, the world leader in bus and truck sales, recently held a Fuso official launch event as it further demonstrates its strong commitment to Thailand. It is the first brand to offer true 'one-stop service solution' to assist with sales, facilitate the financing process, and enhance after-sales services. It will serve anyone who has a Fuso logo imprinted on vehicles anytime, anywhere. The event, held at its state-of-the art warehouse on Bangna-Trad Road also introduced its newly redesigned Fuso truck, and its certified driver service, ‘Fuso Drive’.

Biasa bercakap tentang pemandu lori dan masalah mereka, Stefan Pertz selak di sebalik tirai untuk memahami mereka yang biasanya jarang mendapat pengiktirafan.

Biasanya, apabila bercakap tentang industri trak dan pengangkutan, kita memikirkan pemandu trak (lazimya mereka tidak mendapat pandangan yang baik dari orang awam) atau pemilik syarikat pengangkutan yang berjaya seperti Eddie Stobart atau Lindsay Fox. Walau bagaimanapun, kali ini saya ingin bercakap mengenai mereka yang pada awalnya menjayakan urusan-urusan pengangkutan.

Mekanik

Tidak ramai inginkan pekerjaan ini kerana selalu dianggap sebagai ‘kotor’ tetapi setiap syarikat pengangkutan perlukan mereka untuk memastikan trak-trak berfungsi baik dan melakukan penghantaran mengikut jadual. Memandangkan tugas mereka kini lebih menggunakan komputer dari sepana, mungkin kita perlu mencari nama baru untuk mereka?

Kita boleh gelar mereka sebagai “nerds”, memerah otak hanya untuk mengurangkan berat trak dengan beberapa kilogram, tetapi tanpa pereka kenderaan dan jurutera, tiadalah trak-trak menawan di jalan raya. Industri ini akan masih terperangkap dengan “kotak-kotak logam” di lebuh raya. Dalam filem, pelakon berada di pusat perhatian, tetapi ia adalah pengarah yang menghidupkan skrip. Kami menghormati 'Truck of the Year', tetapi tidakkah sepatutnya kita letakkan pereka ke permaidani merah sekali?

Menipu di Jalan Raya?
Bilakah kali terakhir anda senyum kepada pemandu trak tunda? Walaupun trak direka dan dibina dengan baik, setiap kenderaan ada kalanya akan rosak, ia adalah fakta kehidupan. Pada masa itulah terserlah kebaikan seseorang untuk meninggalkan keluarganya seketika untuk membantu seorang “trucker” yang terkandas. Saya secara peribadi tertanya, apakah benar kisah-kisah tentang pemandu trak tunda yang sengaja menyebabkan kemalangan jalan raya demi mendapatkan wang lebih.

Bagaimana pula mereka yang bekerja 24 jam di stesen minyak? Mereka bersedia membantu kita pada bila-bila masa. Adakah anda tahu nama petugas yang kerap membantu mengisi minyak ke dalam trak anda? Tambahan lagi, kebanyakan stesen minyak juga menydiakan kopi yang enak! Pernahkah kita adakan “Anugerah Petugas Stesen Minyak Terbaik”?

Memastikan Perjalanan Anda Selamat
Apabila lorong ditutup disebabkan kerja-kerja baik pulih, lazimnya kita marah kepada petugas berbaju oren yang mengarahkan kita supaya memandu dengan perlahan. Tetapi ingatlah bahawa itu hanya sementara, kerana tugasnya itu adalah supaya kerosakan jalan raya dapat diperbaiki, sekaligus mengelakkan kemalangan. Berikanlah mereka tepukan kerana petugas-petugas inilah yang memastikan perjalanan anda selamat dan selesa.

Akhir sekali, mari kita berikan kredit kepada pembina trak yang memastikan semua skru ketat, paip tiada bocor dan kita mendapat trak kita tepat pada waktunya. Mereka bekerja dalam tekanan yang hebat demi menepati masa, seperti pemandu trak juga. Jika anda melawat bengkel pemasangan, anda akan belajar tentang “taktik waktu.” Pasukan pemasangan ini perlu menyiapkan sesebuah trak dalam beberapa minit atau saat sahaja.

Wira-wira Tanpa Nama
Saya ingin meminta maaf kerana pastinya saya tidak menyebut semuanya yang terlibat dalam industri ini. Bagaimanapun, mari kita henti seketika untuk mengingati wira-wira ini yang membolehkan trak kita berjalan dan memudahkan kehidupan kita.

Pada 17 Mac 2017, Dongfeng Commercial Vehicle (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (DFCV) akan menganjurkan kejuaraan “Dongfeng Golf Challenge” di Kelab Golf & Country Sultan Abdul Aziz (SAASGCC) di Shah Alam.

Berlangsung pada tahun kelima, DFCV akan menjemput lebih dari 50 peserta dari kalangan pelanggan DFCV, penjual dan rakan bisnes lain.

“Dongfeng Golf Challenge dimulakan pada 2013 untuk membawa semua pelanggan kami, para penjual, rakan bisnes dan rakan-rakan lain bersama untuk menguatkan perhubungan dengan satu sama lain.” Kata Mr Lim Kin Chze, Pengurus Pembangunan Bisnes DFCV.

“Respon yang diterima daripada pihak berkepentingan sepanjang tahun-tahun ini agak memuaskan. Kami berterima kasih kepada semua peserta atas keseronokan yang telah mereka sumbangkan pada waktu kejuaraan tersebut. Kami akan merancang untuk menjadikannya lebih besar di tempat ini juga pada bulan Mei 2017.” Tambah En Lim.

On 17th May 2017, Dongfeng Commercial Vehicle (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (DFCV) will be hosting its annual “Dongfeng Golf Challenge” in Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Golf & Country Club (SAASGCC) in Shah Alam.

Running for the fifth consecutive year, DFCV will be inviting more than 50 participants comprising DFCV customers, dealers and other business associates.

“The Dongfeng Golf Challenge was initiated in 2013 mainly to bring all our customers, dealers, business associates and other acquaintances together and to fortify relationships with one another.” stated Mr Lim Kin Chze, Business Development Manager of DFCV.

“The responses we received from our stakeholders over the past years were overwhelming year by year. We thank all the participants for the joy they contributed during the event. We are now planning to make it a bigger event in this new venue in May 2017.” added Mr Lim.

On 17th May 2017, Dongfeng Commercial Vehicle (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (DFCV) will be hosting its annual “Dongfeng Golf Challenge” in Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Golf & Country Club (SAASGCC) in Shah Alam.

Running for the fifth consecutive year, DFCV will be inviting more than 50 participants comprising DFCV customers, dealers and other business associates.

“The Dongfeng Golf Challenge was initiated in 2013 mainly to bring all our customers, dealers, business associates and other acquaintances together and to fortify relationships with one another.” stated Mr Lim Kin Chze, Business Development Manager of DFCV.

“The responses we received from our stakeholders over the past years were overwhelming year by year. We thank all the participants for the joy they contributed during the event. We are now planning to make it a bigger event in this new venue in May 2017.” added Mr Lim.

We all get a little tired now and then. The worst that can happen to you when working in an office is embarrassment when being found snoozing, but when you move a few tonnes of chemicals in your truck, things look different.

Fatigue (also called exhaustion, tiredness, languidness, languor, lassitude, and listlessness) is a subjective feeling of tiredness which is distinct from weakness, and has a gradual onset. Unlike weakness, fatigue can be alleviated by periods of rest. Fatigue can have physical or mental causes. As we are responsible not only for the safe delivery of the goods on board, but also the wellbeing of drivers and other people around the truck, we need to look at what can be done to counter this deadly symptom of modern work. According to the accident research teams of one truck manufacturer, fatigue is one of the main causes of accidents. Having Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is one of the most important steps to counter fatigue. These SOPs should govern rest times, driving times, regular checks and proper planning for the trips.

Everyone that has been on a road trip to visit friends or relatives or to take the family to the beach will do this: journey planning. One would basically start backwards by determining when to arrive. From there we calculate the journey time including the stops for food, toilets and sightseeing. Add breakfast and getting the folks bundled into the car determines the time to get up. Backwards several hours from there gives you the time you should go to bed in order to get enough sleep. If you are the driver of a commercial vehicle you would basically do the same for every day of the week, whereby you would count the loading, unloading, dealing with staff at the ramp etc into your working hours. Should there not be enough time to sleep, either at home, in the truck or in facilities provided, not enough time to have meals or to even to stretch a bit, then the truck turns into an accident waiting to happen. Fatigued drivers may even fall asleep at the wheel during daytime.

As a result of the research of said accident research teams, trucks from that particular now come with a spacious bunk that allows drivers to rest whenever they need to but they do not advocate them to stop the trucks at the side of the roads/emergency lane which may cause disturbance to other road users. Here drivers may find themselves between a rock and a hard place. In the surveys Asian Trucker has conducted, drivers repeatedly commented on the lack of space at the reststops. Now, what are they to do: continue driving or risking a summons for parking on the emergency lane at the exit of the reststop? The distance between stops doesn’t seem to be too far, so it is easy for drivers to schedule their stops. The issue seems to be more that of the size of the spaces, rather than the number.

For long journeys, it is advisable to have a co-driver so that when the driver is tired, the co-driver can take over. But then again, that costs money. While one driver is “productive”, the other isn’t exactly doing much. Or is s/he? After all, s/he is getting ready for the next shift. With human beings, things can get very unpredictable too as our personal issues, environmental impact and other factors have an influence on our performance. One day we can dance all night in the club and then next day we are ready for a sleep-in after just a walk in the park.

Ergonomics has come a long way and modern cabs of trucks are designed in a way to reduce the effects of fatigue. Sitting position, arrangements of buttons, switches, noise reduction and other aspects help to reduce the stress on the driver. Seeing some of the old trucks on the road one may however wonder how these drivers can still stand working under such conditions. Perhaps these drivers have no other choice and raising their voice may result in them losing their job, something even less favorable than driving an outdated truck. As with many things, the technology may be there, but not accessible to everyone.

Good food and a healthy lifestyle can also help to reduce the effects of fatigue. How many reststops are there however, offering organic food and a fitness park? Getting fresh and healthy food to the rest areas is then another issue to be addressed. As truckers are often paid per trip, they may want to do as many trips as they can, even with the risk of falling asleep on the job. The epic split here is to find a balance between earning enough money for the family and not risking your life and that of others in the process.

Which begs the question of who should be responsible for the wellbeing of the truckers. In several workshops one will find driver lounges. But what about office folks? When was the last time you have seen bedding provided for you after you drove some five hours to a meeting? If trucks are being sent far away for a service, shouldn’t the drivers been given hotel allowances (And use them for exactly that purpose)? One could think that the truckers themselves would know when it is time to stop. Those who have kids would know this analogy of putting your kid’s hand on a hot stove. Once the child has experienced the pain, it won’t touch the stove again with bare hands. As with many things, the mindset would be that fatigue is something that one can control and it doesn’t affect me. Until it does, and with catastrophic consequences.

Modern technology may help to reduce the impact of fatigue. There are several systems available. Even modern passenger cars are now equipped with a simple warning system to shows you a coffee mug when the engine has been running continuously for a number of hours. It’s time to pull over and freshen up. While certainly easy to implement, it is also easy to ignore the little blimp. More sophisticated applications, such as a Drowsy Driver Alert, where the driver’s level of alertness is measured using cameras directed at their eyes and the system will alert the driver and urge him to take a break. Another system, specifically designed to detect fatigue has time and time again proven to be highly effective. In a field test, the results shows that fatigue events per hour driven were significantly lower in the intervention period (2.97 per 1000 moving hours) compared to the baseline period (43.65 per 1000 moving hours), translating to a 93.2% reduction in fatigue events in the intervention period. As such systems are also rather pricey, the implementation may not take place at a quick pace. One way of getting the message across would be simulators or goggles that replicate drowsiness (These are fun exercises when you don’t pilot a 40 ton bullet barrelling down the highway, but the effect will quickly have an impact). Implementing these devises may result in higher cost for the transportation of goods. As always, we need to ask the consumers buying stuff in the supermarket if they are prepared to pay more for the extra safety on the road.

Fatigue, as a health issue, is obviously not that easy to tackle and with all factors to be taken into consideration; it will be not go away by sleeping on it. While every participant in road transportation plays a part in reducing fatigue, it should be the task of fleet managers and drivers to plan trips in a way that reduces stress. What may also help is a system that allows drivers to skip a trip to fully rest without too much financial losses.

Fatigue (also called exhaustion, tiredness, languidness, languor, lassitude, and listlessness) is a subjective feeling of tiredness which is distinct from weakness, and has a gradual onset. Unlike weakness, fatigue can be alleviated by periods of rest. Fatigue can have physical or mental causes. As we are responsible not only for the safe delivery of the goods on board, but also the wellbeing of drivers and other people around the truck, we need to look at what can be done to counter this deadly symptom of modern work. According to the accident research teams of one truck manufacturer, fatigue is one of the main causes of accidents. Having Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is one of the most important steps to counter fatigue. These SOPs should govern rest times, driving times, regular checks and proper planning for the trips.

Everyone that has been on a road trip to visit friends or relatives or to take the family to the beach will do this: journey planning. One would basically start backwards by determining when to arrive. From there we calculate the journey time including the stops for food, toilets and sightseeing. Add breakfast and getting the folks bundled into the car determines the time to get up. Backwards several hours from there gives you the time you should go to bed in order to get enough sleep. If you are the driver of a commercial vehicle you would basically do the same for every day of the week, whereby you would count the loading, unloading, dealing with staff at the ramp etc into your working hours. Should there not be enough time to sleep, either at home, in the truck or in facilities provided, not enough time to have meals or to even to stretch a bit, then the truck turns into an accident waiting to happen. Fatigued drivers may even fall asleep at the wheel during daytime.

As a result of the research of said accident research teams, trucks from that particular now come with a spacious bunk that allows drivers to rest whenever they need to but they do not advocate them to stop the trucks at the side of the roads/emergency lane which may cause disturbance to other road users. Here drivers may find themselves between a rock and a hard place. In the surveys Asian Trucker has conducted, drivers repeatedly commented on the lack of space at the reststops. Now, what are they to do: continue driving or risking a summons for parking on the emergency lane at the exit of the reststop? The distance between stops doesn’t seem to be too far, so it is easy for drivers to schedule their stops. The issue seems to be more that of the size of the spaces, rather than the number.

For long journeys, it is advisable to have a co-driver so that when the driver is tired, the co-driver can take over. But then again, that costs money. While one driver is “productive”, the other isn’t exactly doing much. Or is s/he? After all, s/he is getting ready for the next shift. With human beings, things can get very unpredictable too as our personal issues, environmental impact and other factors have an influence on our performance. One day we can dance all night in the club and then next day we are ready for a sleep-in after just a walk in the park.

Ergonomics has come a long way and modern cabs of trucks are designed in a way to reduce the effects of fatigue. Sitting position, arrangements of buttons, switches, noise reduction and other aspects help to reduce the stress on the driver. Seeing some of the old trucks on the road one may however wonder how these drivers can still stand working under such conditions. Perhaps these drivers have no other choice and raising their voice may result in them losing their job, something even less favorable than driving an outdated truck. As with many things, the technology may be there, but not accessible to everyone.

Good food and a healthy lifestyle can also help to reduce the effects of fatigue. How many reststops are there however, offering organic food and a fitness park? Getting fresh and healthy food to the rest areas is then another issue to be addressed. As truckers are often paid per trip, they may want to do as many trips as they can, even with the risk of falling asleep on the job. The epic split here is to find a balance between earning enough money for the family and not risking your life and that of others in the process.

Which begs the question of who should be responsible for the wellbeing of the truckers. In several workshops one will find driver lounges. But what about office folks? When was the last time you have seen bedding provided for you after you drove some five hours to a meeting? If trucks are being sent far away for a service, shouldn’t the drivers been given hotel allowances (And use them for exactly that purpose)? One could think that the truckers themselves would know when it is time to stop. Those who have kids would know this analogy of putting your kid’s hand on a hot stove. Once the child has experienced the pain, it won’t touch the stove again with bare hands. As with many things, the mindset would be that fatigue is something that one can control and it doesn’t affect me. Until it does, and with catastrophic consequences.

Modern technology may help to reduce the impact of fatigue. There are several systems available. Even modern passenger cars are now equipped with a simple warning system to shows you a coffee mug when the engine has been running continuously for a number of hours. It’s time to pull over and freshen up. While certainly easy to implement, it is also easy to ignore the little blimp. More sophisticated applications, such as a Drowsy Driver Alert, where the driver’s level of alertness is measured using cameras directed at their eyes and the system will alert the driver and urge him to take a break. Another system, specifically designed to detect fatigue has time and time again proven to be highly effective. In a field test, the results shows that fatigue events per hour driven were significantly lower in the intervention period (2.97 per 1000 moving hours) compared to the baseline period (43.65 per 1000 moving hours), translating to a 93.2% reduction in fatigue events in the intervention period. As such systems are also rather pricey, the implementation may not take place at a quick pace. One way of getting the message across would be simulators or goggles that replicate drowsiness (These are fun exercises when you don’t pilot a 40 ton bullet barrelling down the highway, but the effect will quickly have an impact). Implementing these devises may result in higher cost for the transportation of goods. As always, we need to ask the consumers buying stuff in the supermarket if they are prepared to pay more for the extra safety on the road.

Fatigue, as a health issue, is obviously not that easy to tackle and with all factors to be taken into consideration; it will be not go away by sleeping on it. While every participant in road transportation plays a part in reducing fatigue, it should be the task of fleet managers and drivers to plan trips in a way that reduces stress. What may also help is a system that allows drivers to skip a trip to fully rest without too much financial losses.

Amir is a young lad from Alor Setar, Kedah passionate about the trucking industry. The second out of four children graduated in Quantity Surveying. Despite that, he found his passion for driving trucks while playing the game Euro Truck Simulator 2. He realised that it was a fun work that allowed him to see local sights and yet will bring in a decent pay.

The game allows players to select trucks from seven real life truck makers to “start a business” and the one that attracted Amir’s attention was the truck from Scania. Then he stumbled upon a poster for a job vacancy by PKT Logistics as a Smart Trucker. The poster depicted a graduate in uniform driving a Scania truck. The poster really stood out to Amir so he took a leap of faith to be a truck driver.

The position also offers a career path for Amir in the core supply chain in the next two to three years to come. After driving a truck for almost two years, there will definitely be moments that are unforgettable. The one that he recalls as the most memorable was when he was waiting for a feeder vessel from West Port in Port Klang at 3AM in the morning, two hours before it was due to anchor at the Penang Port Wharf when suddenly he had to receive an urgent container from Japan.

It was during this event that Amir learnt the planning involved in unloading containers from vessels and it was an intriguing experience for Amir. “It was a good learning experience and I am sure what I learnt during this day will serve as a useful knowledge in my career.”

Talking about his experience on the roads, Amir is glad he has not been involved in any road accidents since he started driving trucks. He has received videos and photos from other truckers the aftermath of road accidents and they serve as a constant reminder to always prioritise safety while on the roads, be it for him or other road users.

Amir is a young lad from Alor Setar, Kedah passionate about the trucking industry. The second out of four children graduated in Quantity Surveying. Despite that, he found his passion for driving trucks while playing the game Euro Truck Simulator 2. He realised that it was a fun work that allowed him to see local sights and yet will bring in a decent pay. 

The game allows players to select trucks from seven real life truck makers to “start a business” and the one that attracted Amir’s attention was the truck from Scania. Then he stumbled upon a poster for a job vacancy by PKT Logistics as a Smart Trucker. The poster depicted a graduate in uniform driving a Scania truck. The poster really stood out to Amir so he took a leap of faith to be a truck driver.

The position also offers a career path for Amir in the core supply chain in the next two to three years to come. After driving a truck for almost two years, there will definitely be moments that are unforgettable. The one that he recalls as the most memorable was when he was waiting for a feeder vessel from West Port in Port Klang at 3AM in the morning, two hours before it was due to anchor at the Penang Port Wharf when suddenly he had to receive an urgent container from Japan.

It was during this event that Amir learnt the planning involved in unloading containers from vessels and it was an intriguing experience for Amir. “It was a good learning experience and I am sure what I learnt during this day will serve as a useful knowledge in my career.”

Talking about his experience on the roads, Amir is glad he has not been involved in any road accidents since he started driving trucks. He has received videos and photos from other truckers the aftermath of road accidents and they serve as a constant reminder to always prioritise safety while on the roads, be it for him or other road users.